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61st Congress I 
' Session i 



HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 



'DOCUMENT 

1 No. 147 



k/sf 






ROBERT C. DAVEY 

(Late a Representative from Louisiana) 



MEMORIAL ADDRESSES 

DELIVERED IN THE HOUSE OF 

REPRESENTATIVES AND SENATE 

OF THE UNITED STATES 

SIXTY-FIRST CONGRESS 

SECOND SESSION 









Proceedings in the House 
March 20, 1910 



Proceedings In the Senate 
April 18, 1910 



COMPILED UNDER THE DIRECTION OF 
THE JOINT COMMITTEE ON PRINTING 



f\EuA 



I 



WASHINGTON 

GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE 

1911 






TABLE OF CONTEXTS 



Page. 

Proceedings in the House ."> 

Prayer by Rev. Henry N. Couden, D. D .">. 7 

Memorial addresses by — 

Mr. Gilmore, of Louisiana 9 

Mr. Wanger, of Pennsylvania 13 

Mr. Ransdell, of Louisiana l(i 

Mr. Adamson, of Georgia 20 

Mr. Sulzer, of New York 24 

Mr. Townsend, of Michigan 27 

Mr. Pujo, of Louisiana 31 

Mr. Watkins, of Louisiana 34 

Mr. Estopinal, of Louisiana 38 

Mr. Broussard, of Louisiana -111 

Mr. Stevens, of Minnesota 52 

Proceedings in the Senate ,V> 

Prayer by Rev. Ulysses G. B. Pierce, D. D 55 

Memorial addresses by — 

Mr. McEnery, of Louisiana 57 

Mr. Jones, of Washington 04 

Mr. Johnston, of Alabama 117 

Mr. Lorimer, of Illinois 69 

Mr. Foster, of Louisiana 71 



[3] 



DEATH OF HON. ROBERT C. DAVEY 



Proceedings in the Hoi si 

Monday, January '/, 1910. 

The House met at 12 o'clock m. 

The Chaplain, Rev. Henry N. Couden, I). 1)., delivered 
the following prayer: 

Our Father in Heaven, we hail with joy and gratitude 
the new year, with all its hopes and promises, its manifold 
opportunities, and far-reaching possibilities. 

We confess with penitent hearts our weaknesses, our 
sins, our failures, as individuals and as a nation. 

And we most fervently pray that " forgetting those 
things which are behind and reaching forth unto those 
things which are before, we press toward the mark for 
the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus." 

We deplore, beyond our poor power to express, the ter- 
rible calamity which has befallen the people of Italy, our 
sister nation. But we bless Thy holy name for the spon- 
taneous outburst of brotherly love and sympathy which is 
going out from all the world to succor and alleviate the 
stricken people bereft of home and dear ones. Comfort 
them, we beseech Thee, with the blessed thought that in 
life or death nothing can separate them from Thy love 
and care. 

Since we last met in this Hall the Death Angel has 
\isited the congressional family and removed from our 

[5] 



Memorial Addresses: Representative Davey 

midst a wise and efficient Member, a patriotic citizen, a 
faithful servant of his people. Comfort his bereaved 
family, friends, and colleagues by the precious hope of 
immortality, and everlasting praise be Thine, through 
Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen. 

Mr. Broussard. Mr. Speaker, it is with profound sorrow 
that I announce to the Members of this House the death of 
Hon. Robert C. Davey, for many years a Member of Con- 
gress from the second congressional district of Louisiana. 

At a later day I shall ask the House to set apart a day 
for the Members to pronounce eulogies on the life, char- 
acter, and services of the deceased Member. I now ask 
unanimous consent for the immediate consideration of 
the resolutions which I send to the Clerk's desk. 

The Clerk read as follows: 

Resolved, That the House has heard with profound sorrow of 
the death of Hon. Robert C. Davey, a Representative from the 
State of Louisiana. 

Resolved, That the Clerk communicate these resolutions to the 
Senate and transmit a copy thereof to the family of the deceased. 

Resolved, That as a further mark of respect this House do now 
adjourn. 

The resolutions were agreed to. 

Accordingly (at 1 o'clock and 7 minutes p. m.) the 
House adjourned. 



Saturday, March 12, 1910. 

The House met at 12 o'clock noon. 

Prayer by the Chaplain, Rev. Henry N. Couden, D. D. 

Mr. Broussard. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent 
for the present consideration of the order which I send to 
the Clerk's desk. 



[6] 



Proceedings in the I [01 si 



The Speaker. The gentleman from Louisiana offers the 
following order, which the Clerk will report. 

The Clerk read as follows: 

Order 7 

Ordered, That there be a session of the House ;il 1 o'clock p. m. 
Sunday, March 20, 1910, for the delivery of eulogies on the life, 
character, and public services of the Hon. Robert C. Davey, late 

a Member of the House of Representatives from Louisiana. 

The order was agreed to. 

Sunday, March 20, 1910. 

The House met at 1 o'clock p. m. 

Mr. William J. Browning, as Chief Clerk, called the 
House to order and read the following: 

I hereby designate Hon. Robert F. Rroussard, of Louisiana, 

Speaker pro tempore for this day. 

J. G. Cannon. 

Speaker. 

Prayer by the Chaplain, Rev. Henry N. Couden, D. D., as 
follows : 

Our Father in Heaven, we are assembled here on this 
sacred day to fulfill a sacred duty in memory of one who 
for many years faithfully and conscientiously served his 
State and Nation upon the floor of this House, and when 
the summons which awaits us all came, he passed to the 
unknown, where under the benign influences of a heavenly 
Father he still lives. 

Grant, O most merciful Father, that we may so order 
our lives that when the call comes we shall he ready to 
enter into that larger life fully prepared to do the work 
which Thou hast in store for us. We thank Thee for the 
tender ties of friendship, home, and kindred; and we pray 

[7] 



Memorial Addresses : Representative Davey 

most fervently for those who were thus bound to him, 
especially his children, that they may be comforted and 
sustained in the blessed hope of immortality and in the 
consciousness of Thy love, which changes not. and which 
at last shall unite them again in the blessed bonds which 
shall never be broken. And songs of praises we will ever 
give to Thee in the spirit of the Master. Amen. 

The Journal of the proceedings of yesterday was read 
and approved. 

Mr. Gilmore. Mr. Speaker, I offer the following resolu- 
tion, which I send to the desk and ask to have read. 

The Clerk read as follows : 

House resolution 503 

Resolved, That the business of the House be now suspended that 
opportunity may be given for tributes to the memory of Hon. 
Robert C. Davey, late a Member of this House from the State of 
Louisiana. 

Resolved, That as a particular mark of respect to the memory 
of the deceased, and in recognition of his distinguished public 
career, the House, at the conclusion of these exercises, shall stand 
adjourned. 

Resolved, That the Clerk communicate these resolutions to the 
Senate. 

Resolved, That the Clerk send a copy of these resolutions to the 
family of the deceased. 

The Speaker pro tempore. The question is on agree- 
ing to the resolution. 

The question was taken, and the resolution was unani- 
mously agreed to. 



ix 



MEMORIAL ADRESSES 



Address of Mk. Gilmore, or- Louisi \n \ 

On Tuesday, the 29th of December, 1908, a vast con- 
course of people assembled at one of the historical 
churches of the city of New Orleans, and thence followed 
to the tomb the mortal remains of Robert C. Davey, who 
departed this life in that city on the preceding Saturday, 
after a stubborn and courageous fight against disease with 
whidh he had long striven, oftentimes with apparent suc- 
cess. No military glitter or display had attracted the 
attention of idle people and swelled the lengthy proces- 
sion which accompanied him to the grave. The great 
outpouring of citizens from every walk and station of 
life was a fitting testimonial of his personal merit, his 
many genuine friendships, and convincing evidence of the 
high esteem in which he was held universally. 

I have ever felt sure that one of the genuine friendships 
of which I have spoken existed between Mr. Davey and 
myself. For many years I noted with pleasure the stead- 
fast hold he had upon the affections of the people among 
whom he lived, and who out of their regard lor him so 
often distinguished him with deserved public honors, and 
now that one of the highest of these honors has been be- 
stowed upon me, both friendship and duty impel me to 
pay such tribute as I can to his memory, long to remain 
fragrant among us. 

[9] 



Memorial Addresses: Representative Davey 

Robert Charles Davey was born in New Orleans, Octo- 
ber 22, 1853. He attended several schools, private and 
public, among them the boys' high school. In 1871 he was 
graduated from St. Vincent's College, Cape Girardeau, 
Mo. His father had desired him to become a lawyer, but 
he preferred to embark in commercial business. He 
began his political career as a member of the Democratic 
State central committee in the latter seventies, having 
taken an active part in the stir and turmoil of the preced- 
ing period, shouldering a musket in the battle for political 
freedom, September 14, 1874, never to be forgotten in the 
Crescent City. It is to be remarked that with the excep- 
tion of one term Mr. Davey served continuously until his 
death as a member of the State central committee. 

In 1879 he was elected to the State senate and served in 
that body until his election to Congress in 1892, acting in 
1884 and 1886 as president pro tempore. He also served 
as judge of the first recorder's court of New Orleans for 
two terms, from 1880 until 1888. In 1888 he was the candi- 
date of the regular Democratic Party for mayor of New 
Orleans, but was defeated by an independent movement, 
although he ran far ahead of his ticket. 

Mr. Davey entered Congress in 1893 as a Member of this 
House, being reelected every term thereafter except in 
1894, when he declined the honor and personally placed 
in nomination his successor, Charles F. Ruck. 

It is needless for me to review his congressional career; 
you are all familiar with it, and remember the places of 
distinction and responsibility which he enjoyed and cred- 
itably filled in this honorable body. Suffice it to note that 
the dean of the Louisiana delegation at the time of his 
death was the ranking minority member of the Committee 
on Interstate and Foreign Commerce; that he was ever 
fully posted, always alive and active, kept all his engage- 
ments and neglected none of the duties he owed to his 

[10] 



Address of Mr. Gilmore, of Louisiana 

constituents and the country, to the manifest satisfaction 
of the former and the lasting benefit of the latter. 

Mr. DAVEY made no pretensions to oratory. Neverthe- 
less he was a clear, forceful talker when he could be 
induced to speak publicly, as is well known to those who 
accompanied him in political campaigning. He was 
modest and unassuming, and naturally, therefore, was at 
his best in committee work and such other business as 
specially calls for assiduity, knowledge of affairs, keen- 
ness of apprehension, and the weight of that influence 
which is always wielded by one who is universally loved, 
trusted, and respected. 

Judge Davey, as he was popularly called by his constit- 
uents, was a kindly man, doing much good and no harm 
or ill of any sort. He was a generous man, ready to assist 
with word, act, or purse. He possessed, furthermore, that 
cheerfulness of disposition which so often accompanies 
kindliness and generosity and makes a man not only 
admired for his tolerance, beneficence, and charity, but 
beloved for the sunshine that beams from his whole being, 
thaws out any frostiness in his fellows, and kindles in their 
souls the bright flames and wooing warmth of joy and 
happiness. 

He was a loyal man, true to his friends, his cause, his 
duty, unswerving in integrity, and all too courageous, too 
manly to deal in deceit, subterfuge, or evasion. Colonel 
Hepburn said of him : 

He was universally popular. He was the keenest and most 
straightforward man that I have ever known. I never saw the 
slightest semblance of a lie about him, and held him in the highest 
esteem, as did every member of the committee with whom he 
served for 10 or 12 years. There is the deepest regret among the 
Members of the House at the news of his death. 



[11] 



Memorial Addresses: Representative Davey 

There is in Louisiana the deepest regret at his death, 
which closed untimely a life of private beneficence, a 
career of public usefulness. He has left his people there, 
and his friends and fellow-Members here, a loss to 
deplore, a loving personality to remember. He is not 
dead, but gone to receive in the abode of everlasting peace 
and happiness the fadeless diadem, the ever-shining 
crown bespoken in the promise of the Book of Books : 

Be thou faithful unto death, ami I will give thee a crown of life. 



[12] 



Address of Mr. Wanger, of Pennsylvania 

Mr. Speaker: Responding to custom and the call of 
duty we are assembled to pay a merited tribute to one of 
the most modest and unwavering servants of the Ameri- 
can people in the discharge of the duty of a Represent- 
ative in the American Congress that it has been my 
privilege to know. One who was not brilliant in debate 
or showy in the display of those qualities witli which he 
was endowed, yet who by patient endeavor steadily 
directed to the achievement of the tasks devolving upon 
him wrought substantial achievements and was entitled 
to the honor arising from accomplished deeds. 

I first know Robert Charles Davey in the Fifty-third 
Congress, and then observed the qualities which bound so 
many to him and commanded and enjoyed the respect of 
all his fellow-Members and acquaintances. Service with 
him during and from the Fifty-fifth until the last Congress 
upon the Committee on Interstate and Foreign Commerce 
ripened the acquaintance, strengthened the friendship, 
and enlarged the knowledge of his worthy qualities, so 
that when the news of his demise came it gave me un- 
feigned grief, although not surprise, because of knowledge 
of the heart affection from which he had suffered for 
some years. 

In one respect Mr. Davey 'showed marked contradic- 
tions. Usually a very strict party man. believing in and 
acting in accordance with the dictates of party discipline, 
yet on more than one notable occasion his action was 
against the behest of party and in accordance with his 



13 



Memorial Addresses : Representative Davey 

conception of duty to his district and the country. Only 
a man of courage of his party affiliation could have cast 
his vote against the adoption of the Wilson bill and 
against agreeing to the Senate amendments thereto, and 
in a later Congress cast his vote for the passage of the 
Dingley bill. That he knew the vote against the first- 
named measure was not to his personal advantage was 
evidenced by his declination of a renomination; and that 
he remained in good fellowship with his party associates 
notwithstanding these votes was evidenced by the fond 
regard they had for him as a man and confidence in his 
integrity as a legislator. 

It was doubtless love for Louisiana that caused him to 
vote as he did upon tariff questions, and it was the same 
love and desire to serve his people which prompted his 
sturdy efforts for the enlargement of the jurisdiction of 
the Public Health and Marine-Hospital Service, especially 
in 1906, and the provision that was then made to guard 
the country against epidemics, and especially the South- 
land against another epidemic of yellow fever, with which 
it was then threatened. It was in connection with this 
legislation that I came in closer association with him and 
saw more of his persistent labor and sacrifice than at any 
other time. The bill as reported and passed by the House 
was complicated with provisions which were distasteful 
to him; yet, to attain the end and, as he believed, to save 
the people of the States threatened with fever invasion 
from the panic and the sickness and probably the many 
deaths which would have followed such invasion, he 
steadily pressed for its favorable report and passage, re- 
garding that end of higher importance than anything else. 

Vet personal fear had nothing to do with his battle 
against the recurrence of yellow fever, for he was himself 
immune; and it was to save his imperiled countrymen 
that he labored with Members and committees and depart- 

[14] 



Address of Mr. W anger, of Pennsylvania 



ments, and finally had the supreme pleasure of witnessing 
the triumph of his labors. 

The experience of Mr. Davey as a Slate senator of 
Louisiana, as judge of the first recorder's court of New 
Orleans, as candidate, though unsuccessful, for mayor of 
that city, and as Member of this House, added to his edu- 
cation and early training, made him a safe and prudent 
counselor, and the practical wisdom and pure patriotism 
which lie unostentatiously showed gave great weight to 
his suggestions and accounted for his influence in com- 
mittee and with Members generally. 

With a rich fund of humor and of anecdote there was 
no trifling in his make-up, so that he was always the 
agreeable companion and the respected colaborer, with 
scrupulous regard for the faithful fulfillment of all his 
undertakings. 

The tribute which his committee paid him in providing 
for a revenue cutter to be stationed with headquarters at 
his city and to bear his name — the only instance when the 
latter honor was bestowed — demonstrated the high esteem 
and regard of his fellow-committeemen for him, and these 
most forcefully, he being a minority member of the 
committee. 

In the death of our colleague Louisiana lest a Repre- 
sentative ever alert to ably defend and protect her 
interests and the Nation a servant who was proud to 
subordinate even the beloved title of Louisianian to the 
prouder one of an American, and who, in the manner in 
which he served it in this legislative Chamber is entitled 
to the commendation "Well done, good and faithful 
servant." Those of us who knew his good and gen lie 
qualities will ever cherish his memory, and none can 
measure the extent to which the present and generations 
yet to come have reaped and will reap rich fruits from 
his labors. 

[15] 



Address of Mr. Ransdell, of Louisiana 

Mr. Speaker: It is a sad duty that impels me to speak 
of the lamented Robert C. Davey, late a Member of this 
body from the second congressional district of Louisiana. 
He was my good friend, and the words I shall utter come 
from a heart which loved him and holds his memory dear. 

When Judge Davey departed this life his State lost a 
faithful, efticient servant, his children a devoted father, 
and his hosts of friends a generous, big-hearted associate 
who loved them well, and whose death leaves a vacancy 
that can never be filled. 

My first real insight into the noble, unselfish character 
of the judge occurred during my first year in Congress. 
Mr. George J. Gould, president of the Missouri Pacific 
Railway, desired to construct a railroad bridge across 
Red River near its mouth, and about six days before the 
close of the. session he wired to the Senators and Repre- 
sentatives from Louisiana requesting the passage of a 
special act permitting it.. The Committee on Interstate 
and Foreign Commerce, of which Judge Davey was a 
member and which has charge of all bridge bills, had 
adjourned for the session, and he promptly telegraphed 
Mr. Gould that it was loo late — nothing could be done. 
Similar telegrams were sent by others of the delegation. 
Realizing the vast importance of this bridge to my district, 
which had no railroad adjacent and parallel to the Missis- 
sippi River, I introduced a bill at once and appealed to 
Judge Davey to help me secure its passage. He knew the 



[16] 



Address of Mr. Ransdell, of Louisiana 

difficulty, and had just declared in his telegram that such 
a law could not he passed so mar the close of the session. 
but without hesitation and in complete effacement of self 
he promised to do his best. We promptly saw Col. Peter 
Hepburn, chairman of the committee to which my bill 
had been referred, who authorized the judge to call a 
meeting instanter if a quorum coidd be secured. 

By the most persistent and active effort on the judge's 
part and personal appeals to Members to attend, a meet- 
ing was finally secured and the bill was favorably 
reported. I then asked recognition from Speaker Hen- 
derson for the purpose of calling it up and placing it upon 
passage. He refused to give it to me, whereupon Judge 
Davey himself demanded recognition for that purpose, 
secured jt, and remained on the floor for hours awaiting 
his turn, till finally he got the Speaker's eye and the work 
was done. Senator McEnery rushed this bill through the 
Senate, acting as nicely about it there as Judge Davey had 
done in the House. All of the credit was given to me by 
the press, which published a nice story on the subject in 
the papers of my section, when in reality I had done prac- 
tically nothing except to secure the all-powerful help of 
Judge Davey. Very few men would have aided another 
to accomplish a thing of this kind, which they had said 
could not be done, and after completion have declined 
any credit for it. 

I have gone into detail about this matter because it 
reveals the noble unselfishness, disinterestedness, and 
generosity which were such strong traits of our deceased 
friend, and I have never known a man in whom they were 
more highly developed. 

The judge was unusually kind and considerate to young 
Members, always ready with good advice and a helping 
hand, though very retiring and tactful and rarely offering 
suggestions unless called upon. I frequently asked his 



73503°— 11- 



[17] 



Memorial Addresses: Representative Davey 

counsel and assistance, and never in vain. He willingly 
gave his time and attention to assist any colleague, and 
his good nature was often imposed upon. 

Other striking characteristics of the judge were his 
modesty and common sense. His powers of analysis 
were excellent. When any proposition of difficult solu- 
tion was presented he would listen to the discussion for a 
few minutes, and then in quick, terse sentences dissect it 
thoroughly, get at the meat of it, and suggest a plan of 
settlement which was usually adopted. 

I have never known a person possessed of less desire 
for recognition and prominence. He rarely ever made a 
speech in the House, and when he did his remarks were 
concise and clear, but every interest of Louisiana was 
watched by him like a hawk, and he was faithful to all of 
his congressional duties. 

Judge Davey was one of the most popular men in the 
House of Representatives. Everyone knew him and liked 
him. He was genial and simple in his manners; easy of 
approach; us courteous and cordial to the humblest em- 
ployee as to the most prominent Member of the House. 
Indeed, he was best known and loved for the little things 
that sweeten our daily intercourse, and in contact witli 
his fellows always endeavored to brighten their lives. 
He was a strong believer in the doctrine of the inter- 
national sunshine society — 

How much joy and comfort we can all bestow 
If we scalier sunshine everywhere we go — 

and he tried faithfully to practice that beautiful philoso- 
phy. A bright, cheery word, a kindly smile, and a warm 
handshake were his greetings, and it made one feel good 
to be with him. Although in bad health for several 
years prior to his death and a constant sufferer, his good 



[18] 



Address of Mr. Ransdell, of Louisiana 

humor was unfailing, and he rarely complained or 
intruded his feelings on others. 

As before' stated, the judge seldom look an active part 
in the debates on the floor of the House, but he was very 
attentive to committee work, and tireless whenever a 
measure was presented to his own great Committee on 
Interstate and Foreign Commerce, or any other commit- 
tee that related in the slightest degree to Louisiana. He 
neglected no detail, and his personal influence with his 
colleagues was so remarkable that if the measure advo- 
cated by him had reasonable merit it was almost sure to 
win. His career illustrates in a striking manner the fact 
that a Member can become most influential and useful as 
a legislator and yet make very few speeches in the House. 

Mr. Speaker, it is a mournful pleasure to lay these few 
flowers on the grave of your friend and mine. Long may 
his memory be green and sweet to those of us who knew 
and loved him in these Halls, and honored by the State 
and Nation he served so well. 



[19] 



Address of Mr. Adamson, of Georgia 

Mr. Speaker: One of the most popular maxims in all 
the books is the injunction to "Speak nothing hut good 
concerning the dead." In case of our deceased friend, 
Hon. Robert C. Davey, it is not difficult to comply with 
that rule. It is true there is sometimes a tendency to 
indulge in extravagant laudation of the departed. It is 
fortunate that when death closes the lips and eyes and 
stills the heart and arm of a man, all criticism, hatred, and 
revenge are disarmed, and humanity is willing to remem- 
ber no demerits, but cherish and even magnify the good 
only. That tendency may be due to the conscious weak- 
ness common to our natures. Realizing our own frailty 
and knowing that sooner or later our own hearts must 
cease to pulsate and our own lips grow dumb, anticipating 
something of our own lot with involuntary dread for the 
untried terrors of death's lone passage, we instinctively 
feel for the dead the same consideration which we hope 
for our own memories from the attention of our survivors. 
In the case, however, of our lamented comrade it was not 
necessary to wait for death to disarm malice nor stifle 
criticism. There was in his life and character enough 
good for a long speech without hunting for faults, which 
were exceedingly few, if any existed. Every person who 
knew him in life loved him. I venture the opinion that 
he never intentionally harmed a human being; that he 
was intuitively considerate of his fellow-man, because he 
loved his fellow-man. It was delightful to acknowledge 

[20] 



Address of Mr. Adamson, of Georgia 

his merits while he lived, and present him with an occa- 
sional nosegay while life yet permitted him to enjoy its 
perfume, without awaiting his death to shower his bier 
with an avalanche of flowers, or pronounce to other ears 
praises for virtues, admiration of which we had gladly 
accorded him in life. 

For almost 12 years I sat by him in the great Committee 
on Interstate and Foreign Commerce and worked with 
him in the House of Representatives. While in the minor- 
ity during his service in Congress, and therefore less able 
to control the character of constructive legislation, he was, 
nevertheless, always diligent and prompt in the most 
intelligent attention to his public duties. He actively par- 
ticipated in much important legislation. For many years 
the ranking member of the minority on the committee, he 
was held in respect and confidence at our end of the table, 
while the majority welcomed expression of his views and 
treated them and him with profound consideration, often 
accepting his suggestions and always anxious to defer to 
him and oblige him in any matter personal or local, while 
ready to regard his opinions on all general and public 
questions. During the 12 years of my intimate associa- 
tion with him I have no recollection of a duty he failed to 
perform nor an unkind word or act to any fellow-Member, 
nor of any failure to help, oblige, and please at every 
opportunity. 

If " by their fruits ye shall know them," these reflections 
convince me that he was a good man, for " a good man out 
of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which 
is good; for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth 
speaketh." He loved his country and he loved his home 
State and splendid native city by the Father of Waters, 
to the beauty, advancement, and prosperity of which he 
contributed so much. Many are the marks of his industry, 
wisdom, and devotion, conspicuous throughout all her 

L21] 



Memorial Addresses: Representative Davey 

borders in improvements for the convenience and happi- 
ness of her people. But he loved our great Republic, and 
if he appeared to love his own city and State more than 
other parts of our common country, it was more apparent 
than real and due to his active devotion to the true princi- 
ple of our Government — that its success depends on indi- 
viduals and communities locally doing their duty at home. 
If every individual and every community should con- 
form to that rule of action, all individuals and all com- 
munities would be good. The whole country would be 
good, and the Republic, justifying the theory and expecta- 
tions of its founders, would live forever in usefulness and 
glory; but the Republic that he loved was not a perverted 
republic, for which some centralists strive, but a union of 
sovereign, indestructible States looking after all domestic 
questions and conditions, such as labor, education, the 
domestic relations, preservation of order, good morals, 
encouragement of industry, and the protection of the 
people in the pursuit of happiness and the enjoyment of 
life, liberty, and property, with a general government 
exercising its proper constitutional delegated functions 
to exemplify and perpetuate an indissoluble union for 
the general good, doing the things more convenient and 
economical for it to do than for each State to do for 
herself or for her sister States; stronger than any or all 
together in its legitimate sphere, because calling into 
exercise the combined forces of all, and using all its 
powers of statecraft and diplomacy, yea, making war, if 
necessary, for the protection of our people and States 
in the exercise of their rights under a republican form of 
government. Instead of discouraging the exercise of 
local self-government, it should, if necessary, fight any 
earthly power which might take umbrage at the proper 
exercise, by the people or the States, of the right of local 
self-government — the corner stone of our system, the 

[22] 



Address of Mr. Adamson, of Georgia 



essence of our liberty, the very thing it was intended for 
the Federal Government to defend and protect at all 
hazards against all objectors. 

Of his domestic life I will leave others to speak, con- 
tenting myself with the satisfaction that, being a true and 
noble husband, he was also a wise, tender, and provident 
father, loved and honored in his home by a good wile, 
who preceded him to glory, and by lovely children, who, 
well stationed in life and society, proudly realize in their 
bereavement that " a good man leaveth an inheritance to 
his children's children." They knew and rejoiced during 
his life that " the just man walketh in his integrity " and 
in his good name among men, and in their fond recollec- 
tion of his benign life and example, shedding benefactions 
and glowing with benediction, they feel that " his children 
are blessed after him." In truth and in fact Bob Davey 
was a man. I will not say that " his like we shall not 
soon see again," but rather express with joy the opinion 
that there are many of his kind. 

If " an honest man is the noblest work of God," he 
lived and died far in the front rank among those images 
of his Maker who are nearest like unto God, and in his 
daily walk and godly conversation exemplified the noble 
character which we are taught to hope and believe is best 
prepared to be received with welcome plaudits and for- 
ever glorified in the bosom of his everlasting Father. 



[23] 



Address of Mr. Sulzer, of New York 

Mr. Speaker: Judge Davey and I were sincere friends 
for many years. No one in this House thought more of 
him. No one liked him better; no one had a greater 
admiration for his abilities; and no one in Congress or 
out of Congress had a higher appreciation than I of his 
good qualities of head and heart. . To-day I come to place 
on record my tribute of affection to his memory. I knew 
him well as a Member of this House, and in a social way 
we were intimately acquainted. He was a man of noble 
character, sincere in pui'pose, of high ideals, with a genial, 
sunshiny disposition, and an attractive personality. He 
was a true friend in the best sense of the word, and those 
friends he had, and their adoption tried, he held them 
with ties of affection stronger than ropes of steel. 

Robert C. Davey was a successful man, and had a most 
eventful public career. He was born in New Orleans on 
October 22, 1853. He received his early education in the 
schools of his native city; entered St. Vincent's College., 
Missouri, in 1869, and graduated with high honors in 1871. 
He was elected a member of the State senate in December, 
1879; reelected in April, 1884; and again elected in April, 
1892. 

During the sessions of 1884 and 1886 he was president 
pro tempore of the senate. He was elected judge of the 
first recorder's court in November, 1880; reelected in 
November, 1882; again in April, 1884, and served until 
May, 1888. He was defeated for mayor of the city of New 

[24] 



Address oe Mr. Sulzer, of New York 

Orleans in April, 1888. He was elected to and served in 
the Fifty-third Congress, but positively declined a renomi- 
nation for the Fifty-fourth Congress. He was elected to 
and served with distinction in the Fifty-tilth, Fifty-sixth, 
Fifty-seventh, Fifty-eighth, Fifty-ninth, Sixtieth, and 
Sixty-first Congresses. He died in the prime of life, in 
the zenith of his career, at the time of his greatest useful- 
ness, at the summit of his fame, loved and respected, and 
mourned by all who knew him. 

The untimely death of Congressman Davey was a great 
shock to the Members of Congress and to his many friends 
throughout the country. We will miss him more and 
more as the years come, and go. He occupied a place in 
our affections which can not be filled. We shall not look 
upon his like again. We sit in silent sadness with those 
who loved him; we grieve with those who were near and 
dear to him; and to all his relatives we extend our sincere 
and heartfelt sympathy. 

The people knew Davey; they trusted him; they kept 
him in official position; they knew his worth; they knew 
he was a faithful public servant. He did much to 
improve his native city, much for the progress of his 
State, and much for the greatness of his country. His 
early demise was a national loss, and those here who 
knew him best fully realize this, and hence feel most 
keenly his unfortunate death. 

He was the soul of honor; he loved the truth; his word 
was his bond; he spared no effort to serve a friend; he 
never forgot; he was no ingrate; he was an industrious 
man, a worker for the people, a doer of good in the vine- 
yard of humanity, an energetic, public-spirited citizen, 
who did things for the advancement of civilization; he 
was broad minded, liberal in his views, charitable to a 
fault, a gentleman of the old school; he was a Democrat 
through and through, who believed in the great funda- 

[25] 



Memorial Addresses : Representative Davey 

mental principles of the author of the Declaration of 
Independence and struggled all his life for their exempli- 
fication. 

Such a man was Congressman Robert C. Davey, and 
such a man is not often horn nor soon forgotten. He is 
gone to the undiscovered country, whence all must shortly 
journey, never to return, hut he will live in his works for 
man and in the affectionate memory of those who loved 
him. A grateful country will never forget his patriotic 
and self-sacrificing services, and his myriad friends 
throughout the land, ever remembering his kind words, 
his good counsel, and his noble deeds, will always keep 
his memory green. • 

Green be the turf above thee, 

Friend of my better days; 
None knew thee but to love thee, 

None named thee but to praise. 



[26] 



Address ok Mr. Townsend, of Michigan 

Mr. Speaker: I am greatly impressed with the differ- 
ence between the scene on this floor now and that which 
we witnessed here a few short hours ago. Yesterday tin's 
Chamber was packed with an eager throng, drawn hither 
by the hope that sensationalism would be rife and that 
possibly bitter and cruel words would be uttered, resulting 
in action harmful to the feelings and reputations of men. 
Is it too much to say that the crowd was actuated by 
morbid curiosity and a desire to gratify the baser senti- 
ments of our natures? To-day the Chamber contains 
only those who, out of love for him whose memory we 
commemorate at this time, have felt like taking advantage 
of this most proper occasion to bring a few flowers of 
esteem and regard to place upon the bier of one who 
recently moved among us. Why should there be such a 
difference? This Hall is dedicated to the cause of govern- 
ment, and government is ostensibly for the good of men. 
To-day we eulogize a man who lived and wrought in the 
cause of such a government, and, judged by the standard 
of uprightness, fidelity, and integrity, he was a good man 
and a demonstration of worthy citizenship under popular 
government. 

I would not commend mourning weeds as perpetual 
raiment; neither would I silence one ripple of laughter, 
one song of pleasure. I would not destroy a flower or 
darken a sunbeam, but I would, if I could, unstop deaf 
ears and open blind eyes to the real things of worth and 
beauty. 



[27] 



Memorial Addresses: Representative Davey 

As we stand at the bier of the departed our better 
natures take control and life appears from a different 
perspective. As legislators we could, with profit, attend 
every meeting of this kind, as they are the Mount Pisgahs 
from whose summits we can see real life and can dis- 
criminate between wicked selfishness and highest duty. 

We do well to honor the lives and memories of men 
who have done well. By doing this we strengthen our- 
selves in welldoing and become better men. 

Here we speak but the good, and thus again is the 
occasion differentiated from yesterday. The press, in its 
anxiety to sell its publications, prints under sensational 
headings the faults, mistakes, and foibles of men and 
gives them widest circulation. The good too frequently 
goes unwritten and unsung. 

To-day we speak but good, and good is and must be the 
redeemer of the world. 

Mr. Speaker, 1 came here with little preparation, but I 
am persuaded that this is not a time for oratory, and 
especially on this particular occasion, for he whose life 
and work we now commemorate was a plain and modest 
man, not given either to the spectacular or to the unreal. 
I rise, however, to speak the words of sincere friendship 
for the late Robert C. Davey which come unbidden to 
my lips. 

When I entered Congress and was assigned to the Com- 
mittee on Interstate and Foreign Commerce, Mr. Davey 
was a member of it and one of the first with whom I be- 
came acquainted. He had a strong face, an attractive 
personality, even to the stranger, and the impressions 
thus obtained at the beginning were strengthened by 
closer acquaintance, and I came to ratify those first 
impressions of him. I knew from the beginning that he 
was not a well man, and I have wondered if it is not in 
the Divine economy so ordained that when the physical 

[28] 



Address of Mr. Townsend, of Mm higan 

is afflicted the spiritual becomes stronger. I believe, sir, 
that no colleague of his can either on a funeral occasion, 
when we are inclined to speak only well of the departed, 
or on any other say that Judge D\vi:v was not a man 
actuated by the loftiest and best feelings of mankind. 
His patience with and tolerance of the faults and foibles 
of others were, it seemed to me, greater than those of 
his physically stronger colleagues. I knew him when 
personal bereavement came to him. He was still the 
strong, steady man, facing the inevitable, meeting it man- 
fully and courageously. 

1 was with him on the trip to Panama in November, 
1901. He was sick on that voyage, but he did not com- 
plain. I remember talking with him many times, be- 
cause it was not an altogether pleasant voyage lor me 
physically. There was thus a bond of sympathy between 
us. We visited much on that trip. 

It is, I think, in these moments, when you meet men 
uninfluenced by passion and prejudice, when you meet 
as man to man, that you understand your fellows better 
than on any other occasion. So I think 1 came to know 
Judge Davey well. I have heard what his religious sect 
was. I know that he was a deeply religious man accord- 
ing to the standard of doing unto others as you would be 
done by. He knew that the veil was soon to be lifted. 
that it could not remain down long, and he contemplated 
the fact with complacency. I remember one day we were 
talking about the aims and ambitions of men. How they 
all dwarf into insignificance when we are face to face 
with the great fact which in the end comes to all the 
dissolution of man! He told me that he was ready for 
the call when he should be summoned. I said to him 
that his suggestions of meeting everything manfully and 
bravely and without complaint reminded me of a little 
poem, anonymous, which I had read, and while we s:il 

I 2!) 



Memorial Addresses : Representative Davey 

there on the deck I recited to him its words, which I think 
expressed his faith, as they certainly do mine: 

Whichever way the wind doth blow, 

Some heart is glad to have it so. 

Then, blow it east or blow it west, 

The wind that blows, that wind is best. 

My little bark sails not alone. 

A thousand boats from every zone 

Are out upon a thousand seas, 

And what to me were favoring breeze 

Might dash another with the shock 

Of ruin on the hidden rock. 

And so I do not dare to pray 

For winds to waft me on my way, 

But leave it to the higher will 

To stay or speed me, trusting still 

That all is well, and sure that He 

Who launched my bark will sail with me 

Through storm and calm and will not fail, 

Whatever breezes may prevail, 

To bring me every danger past 

Within His sheltering haven at last. 

He has hrought Judge Davey there. There is no doubt 
about it. I do not know whether he is cognizant of what 
is going on here to-day or not. If he is, it will not be the 
words which we may utter, but the sincerity which lies 
behind them that he will recognize. 

Mr. Speaker, in this humble way, without attempting 
lo exaggerate, because it is folly to exaggerate, I pay 
my little tribute of respect. Congressman Davey was an 
inspiration to his colleagues on the Interstate and Foreign 
Commerce Committee. He never played a part. He 
appeared to be and was the soul of honor. Therefore 
we mourn his loss; we recognize that the inevitable has 
come to him, as it must come to all of us; but he taught 
valuable lessons in modesty, integrity, and fidelity, and 
we who are permitted just a little while longer to remain 
on this field of action will, I believe, do our work better 
for having met and associated with Robert C. Davey. 

[30] 



Address of Mr. Pujo, of Louisiana 

Mr. Speaker: In the last analysis, whin casting up the 
final account of a man's life, the real question is. What 
dominant traits of character, what virtues, emphasized 
his efforts in this great field of human endeavor? I will 
not attempt to paint the lily or add perfume to the violet 
by entering into an eulogistic discussion of the life efforts, 
worth, and character of my friend, Judge Davey. These 
have been referred to and mentioned in eloquent, touch- 
ing, and earnest terms by my colleagues who preceded me. 

I feel at great disadvantage, and in a way I feel almost 
reluctant to try to express some of the thoughts that rush 
through my mind when the memory of my friend and the 
friend of all of us is brought back so vividly. 

Judge Davey served in public positions for thirty years, 
and when he died no one in this wide world could point 
the finger of suspicion at him, either in his public or pri- 
vate life. He could not truthfully have been charged with 
having an itching palm. The salaries that came to him 
in his public positions were frequently spent almost before 
they were payable. He never knew what it was to refuse 
an application or a request for aid. In fact, to my per- 
sonal knowledge, he was frequently imposed upon by 
helping those who never intended to recoup, or to prevent 
him from sustaining loss. When we turn our minds back 
to the final ceremonies in New Orleans, the scene is vivid. 
The elite of that magnificent city crowded around his bier. 
People representing every walk and avocation of life were 
represented. The poor were there in large numbers; and 
in fact one realized when looking into the faces of those 

:31] 



Memorial Addresses: Representative Davey 

who were present that he typified to them Christian 
charity in its broadest sense. 

Mr. Speaker, while I did not live in the immediate vicin- 
ity of the home of Judge Davey, it was my good fortune to 
have been acquainted with him for almost a quarter of a 
century. During that whole time and during my service 
in Congress I always found him courteous, and willing 
and able to help anyone who made application for assist- 
ance. In fact — and I say this without any desire to create 
invidious distinction — at the time Judge Davey departed 
this life he was unquestionably the most influential man 
in the Louisiana delegation, and wielded as much influ- 
ence^in this body as any Member of any other delegation 
on the minority side. 

This was not due to the fact that he was noted in forensic 
effort. It was due to his noble traits of character, to the 
manner in which he discharged his public duties, to his 
integrity, and to his unfailing willingness to help and 
cooperate with his colleagues in bringing about that which 
was best in the way of legislation. 

In the death of Judge Davey the people of Louisiana 
lost one of their most distinguished citizens, a man who 
brought great credit and material benefit to his district 
and to his State; his children, an indulgent and affec- 
tionate parent; and his friends, one to whom they could 
go when they were " down and out." 

Mr. Speaker, when my mind reverts to the sterling 
qualities of our lamented friend, I always link his memory 
with that of the type of humanity of which the poet sings 
so sweetly: 

Abou Ben Adhem (may his tribe increase!) 
Awoke one night from a deep dream of peace, 
And saw within the moonlight of his room, 
Making it rich and like a lily in bloom, 

[32] 



Address oi-~ Mr. Pujo, of Loi isiana 



An angel writing in ;i hook of gold. 
Exceeding peace had made Ben Adhem hold. 
And to the presence in the room he said, 

"What writest thou?" The vision raised its head, 
And, with a look made all of sweet accord. 
Answered, " The names of those who love the Lord." 

" And is mine one? " said Ahou. " Nay, not so." 
Replied the angel. Ahou spoke more low. 
But cheerily still, and said: " I pray thee, then, 
Write me as one who loves his fellow-nun." 
The angel wrote and vanished. The next night 
It came again with a great wakening light, 
And showed the names whom love of God had blessed, 
And lo! Ben Adhem's name led all the rest. 



73503 -11 3 [33] 



Address of Mr. Watkins, of Louisiana 

Mr. Speaker: It is in response to the call of a most 
solemn duty that I pay tribute to the memory of my 
deceased colleague and friend, Judge Robert Charles 
Davey. 

He served four years in the State senate of Louisiana 
with my father, and there was a close attachment be- 
tween them, and I had learned to respect Judge Davey 
before I became intimately acquainted with him here. 

Prior to his election to Congress he had served three 
terms in the State senate, being president pro tempore, 
and presiding in the absence of the lieutenant governor 
during four years of this time. 

His services as judge of the recorder's court in the city 
of New Orleans from November, 1880, to May, 1888, en- 
abled him to gain an extensive knowledge of men and 
to become acquainted with human nature. His public 
services in the State and here at Washington caused him 
to be generally known, and while lie was no stranger to 
me, it was not until I began. my term of service here and 
took my seat by the side of him, in December, 1905, that 
our acquaintance ripened into very close friendship. 

In the assignment of seats in the House of Representa- 
tives in December, 1905, I was assigned a seat between 
Gen. Adolph Meyer, who sat on my right, and Judge 
Davey, who sat on my left. During each session of Con- 
gress for two years we were thus closely associated. All 
three of us had frequent occasion to express our views 

[34] 



Address of Mr. Waikins, of Louisiana 

to each other on social, political, and moral questions. 
While we were of the same political faith, we all differed 
in religions belief; but there was never the least friction 
in our discussions. We each accorded to the other hon- 
esty of purpose in his expressions of belief, and our dis- 
cussions caused each of us to have the highest regard for 
the sincerity of the other. 

Judge Davey was a devout Catholic, true to his reli- 
gious belief, and consecrated in his observance of all the 
requirements of his church. 

No one could know him without loving and respecting 
him. He was always gracious and accommodating. His 
long term of service as a Member of the House of Rep- 
resentatives had caused him to become acquainted with 
the Members of the House and the measures presented, 
and he was ready at all times to assist a new Member in 
getting measures passed which were worthy. 

We understand that very little effective work is done 
here by speechmaking, but that the most effective work 
is done before the committees before the bill is reported 
to the House of Representatives for passage, and that a 
friendly acquaintance with the individual Members of 
the House who go to make up the committees is of great 
assistance to a Member in getting his measures through. 

Judge Davey had served on the Committee on Inter- 
state and Foreign Commerce for many years. It was 
before this committee I had to go to get a bridge bill 
through. Congress was sitting its last day for the ses- 
sion. The committee had adjourned for the session when 
I received a telegram urging me to get a bridge hill 
through. I fded it at once and requested the minority 
leader to help me get it through. He said it was impos- 
sible. 1 appealed to Judge Davey. He went to see each 
member of the committee in person, and through their 
friendship lor him they reassembled, reported the bill, 

35 



Memorial Addresses : Representative Davey 

and during that legislative day it passed the House and 
Senate and became a law. 

This is only one instance of the many which go to show 
his kindness and the consideration in which he was held 
by his fellow-members. 

During his 14 years of service in the House of Repre- 
sentatives he had as his colleagues some of the most 
able and influential statesmen who have ever served in 
our National Assembly. Some of them have gone out 
of the House of Representatives to become governors, 
some have gone to the United States Seriate, and many 
remain in the House. 

It is a notable fact that very few Members of Congress 
accomplish much until they have served a number of 
years. The complications and intricacies of governmen- 
tal affairs are so great, the interests so vast, and the 
departmental work so voluminous that it takes years of 
toil and study to master it. Some sections seem to un- 
derstand and appreciate this fact, for we see the present 
Speaker, Mr. Cannon, serving for 18 terms, or 36 years; 
Mr. Ringham, 32 years; Mr. Payne, 26 years; Mr. Dalzell, 
24 years; Messrs. Hull of Iowa, Jones, and Livingston, 20 
years; 8 Members serving 18 years; 17 Members serving 
16 years; 36 Members serving 14 years, during the time 
which Judge Davey served. Judge Davey would have 
been serving to-day if be had lived, as his people had 
learned to prize his services and to know his real worth. 

Judge Davey had no fear of death. He knew for 
months that he was afflicted with a fatal malady, but he 
was as complacent in discussing it as he was in talking 
about the everyday affairs of life. He was always of a 
jovial disposition, but as solid as adamant in the dis- 
charge of his duty. He made his imprint on legislation, 
and some of our most important laws are due largely to 
his originality and his untiring efforts. The railroad rate 

[36] 



Address of Mr. Watkins, of Loi isiana 



bill, the national quarantine law, and many others might 
be cited as examples. He made no pretense to oratory, 
but he. was a forceful speaker and carried the conviction 
of bis earnestness with Ids plain and simple statement 
of facts. 

Thus is summed up the narrative of tbe man as we 
knew him, with no laudation or fulsome flattery, but a 
truthful tribute to him whom we loved. 



[37] 



Address of Mr. Estoimnal, of Louisiana 

Mr. Speaker: Robert' Charles Davey died in New- 
Orleans December 26, 1908. He served his State ear- 
nestly, ably, and conscientiously in the Fifty-third, Fifty- 
fifth, Fifty-sixth, Fifty-seventh, Fifty-eighth, Fifty-ninth, 
and Sixtieth Congresses, and was a Member-elect to the 
present Congress. Of his services in this House, save to 
say that he had the full confidence of his constituents and 
of the entire State in his ability, resourcefulness, and 
fidelity to duty, I shall not speak. That I will leave to his 
colleagues and the Members on both sides of this Chamber 
who served with him on committees and were otherwise 
brought into intimate relations with him. To those gen- 
erally who were thrown in contact with him, more or less, 
in legislative and political matters, he was known as Judge 
Davey; but to those of us who knew him long and inti- 
mately and loved him as a brother, he was always "J3ob " 
Davey. He was a forceful man, a born fighter, yet he 
never held rancor in his heart toward any man. Political 
opponents of to-day were his personal friends always, 
and perhaps political allies of to-morrow, so great was 
his capacity to envelop in personal friendship, from the 
bigness of his heart, both the political allies and political 
opponents. 

Factional strife within the party to which we both 
belonged waged fiercely at times. Bob Davey was a lead- 
ing figure in all of them, commanding his forces always 
with success and battling with great earnestness and vigor 

[38] 



Address of Mr. Estopinal, of Louisiana 

for his side and his friends; yet never criticism, never 
disparagement, never reproach, never hostility for the 

other side against which he was fighting with such 
knightly intent. 

As an instance of this rare gift of leading in opposition 
and yet retaining the love and affection of his opponent, 
I will mention the political fight of 18<ScS, in which Bon 
Davey, showing the strongest qualities of leadership and 
winning out in his ward by a vote of 5 to 1. supported Gen. 
Francis T. Nichols for governor against the then governor, 
and now senior Senator from our Stale. Samuel Douglas 
McEnery. Governor McEnery was defeated, largely the 
result of Bon Davey's splendid leadership, and the former 
governor, Nichols, succeeded him in the gubernatorial 
chair. Now, mark the result: In an obituary article in 
the New Orleans Picayune, our distinguished senior Sen- 
ator [Mr. McEnery] is quoted as follows: 

Judge Davey was a forceful and popular speaker, as I had 
occasion to observe while campaigning with him. I told him 
this and repeatedly urged him to speak oftener and let his remarks 
appear in print. But, with his well-known modesty, he merely 
smiled and declined to take the platform. 

But here is the significant utterance to which I wish to 
call attention, which shows the singular and remarkable 
characteristic that I mentioned of retaining friendship 
while being a leader in opposition. Senator McEnery 
further says (I quote from the same paper) : 

Bob Davey has been my candidate for governor for many years. 
Whenever anyone lias asked me for my support for this office 1 
have given it with this reservation: " If Bob Davey is not a candi- 
date," hoping that some day he could be induced to run. He 
would have made an able and honest governor, and I would have 
liked to have seen him in that office. 



[39] 



Memorial Addresses: Representative Davey 

Volumes that I might utter, commendatory and lauda- 
tory, could not bring out with more vivid distinctness the 
qualities of greatness and goodness of that remarkable 
man more than this instance; and it is no less a tribute to 
the broadness and greatness of our senior Senator. 

As confirming our senior Senator's opinion of Bob 
Davey's ability as an eloquent and forceful speaker, and 
as an evidence of the grandeur of his character and of 
his broad charity, I will insert in my remarks an extract 
from a speech he made on one occasion, which more 
awakened the admiration and more touched the feelings 
of our people than perhaps any speech ever delivered in 
Louisiana. 

It was in one of those factional fights for the control of 
the city of New Orleans. A movement, supported by 
some of our best citizens and ablest men, was organized 
under the name of " Home Riders," and they vigorously, 
though unsuccessfully, fought the regular Democrats. In 
almost the closing days of the campaign Judge Davey gave 
utterance to these remarkable sentiments: 

This campaign was commenced by the opposition talking of 
" Winchesters and shotguns." I desire to say to you that there 
is no office in the gift of the people that is worth one drop of 
human blood. I will go further and say that all the offices, from 
President down to the smallest in the gift of the people, are, col- 
lectively, not worth one drop of human blood. 

That statement is the measure of the great heart of 
the man. 

Replying to the charge that the regulars would commit 
frauds at the polls, he said: 

They need have no fear, nor need they to endeavor to arouse 
the passions of the people by unfounded charges, that we intend 
to defraud them at the polls. As God is my judge, fellow citizens, 
I hope that if we have not the votes on November 8 our ticket will 
be defeated. 

[40] 



Address of Mr. Estopinal, of Louisiana 

That statement is the measure of the honesty of the 

man. 

Bob Davey was born October 22, 1<S~>.'1, in the city which 

so signally honored him. After attending school in New 
Orleans and attaining a high-school education, he went, in 
18(59, to St. Vincent's College, Cape Girardeau, Mo., where 
he completed a two-years' finishing course in 1871, His 
purpose was to enter business life in our city, which he 
did after graduating. But however much this business 
life was to bis taste, he was not allowed to long pursue it, 
for, in a distracted condition of political affairs in bis 
ward, be was called to active leadership and elected a 
member of the Democratic State executive committee. 
In 1879, at the age of 26 years, be was elected to the State 
senate and continued in that body for eight years, during 
four of which he was its president pro tempore. He was 
also during nearly that entire term judge of the first 
recorder's court of New Orleans, a position not legally 
incompatible with bis legislative position. In 1888 be was 
nominated for mayor of New Orleans by the regular 
Democratic organization; but there have been occasions 
when the regular ticket was defeated, and even Judge 
Davey, with his great personal popularity, could not keep 
the pendulum from swinging against the regulars at that 
election, and he was defeated. That was the first and only 
defeat of his career. Following his defeat for mayor, he 
was nominated and elected to the Fifty-third Congress 
from the second Louisiana district. 

Wishing to again enter business, which seems to have 
been bis life's purpose and desire, be declined reelection 
to the Fifty-fourth Congress. But his people would not 
permit him to remain out of public life, for be was nomi- 
nated unanimously and elected, practically without oppo- 
sition, to the Fifty-fifth Congress, served continuously 
from that time, and was elected, less than two months 

[41] 



Memorial Addresses: Representative Davey 

before his death, as a Member of this Congress, in which 
he was destined never to serve. Such is. briefly, the 
record of a life of political activity in which political 
office was thrust upon him. 

I have known Bob Davey from his very early manhood, 
and I served with him in the State senate. While we 
have differed in our views of State politics and have been 
on different sides in the warm political contests of the 
times, our personal friendship was never interrupted in 
the slightest degree, and I can speak with perhaps more 
depth of feeling of his loyal greatness than almost any 
man in the State. His word was ever accepted as a bond, 
and he was one man of whom it can be said that he never 
made a promise he could not fulfill, never made one that 
he did not keep, and that once his friend it was friendship 
to the end. He never broke a friendship himself, and the 
charm of his personality and the greatness of his heart 
were such that he could never lose a friend that he had 
once drawn to him. 

At no time in his career was there ever serious danger 
of defeat in his ward, and at no time in his congressional 
service was there ever hint of opposition to him. It is a 
great tribute to his personal popularity that he should be 
so universally recognized as a leader with such constant 
and unchanging friendships which he so steadfastly held.. 

As a fitting finis to this humble tribute I am paying to 
the virtues of my departed friend, I shall, if there be no 
objection, add some of the obituary comments of the daily 
press of my city on his life, services, and characteristics. 

[Editorial from the New Orleans Times-Democrat. 1 

Devoid of oratorical powers, Mr. Davey proved himself none 
the less a useful Representative after the modern ideas of Con- 
gressmen. His long term, his bonhomie, won him friends on both 
sides of Congress. A man free from bitterness and extreme par- 
tisanship, he had probably as many friends on the Republican 

[42] 



Address of Mr. Estopinal, of Louisiana 

side of the House-as any Democrat in Washington, and was there- 
fore able to get consideration and attention for the measures he 
recommended, which Members of Tar greater national prominence 
never have been able to accomplish. 

All requests received the promptest and most careful consid- 
eration, and whatever it was possible for him to do for the people 
of his district he did willingly and thoroughly. And this was 
equally true of the city of New Orleans, for its commercial, indus- 
trial, and other organizations could always feel sure that Con- 
gressman Davey would act for them, on the floor of the House or 
before any of the general departments, whenever asked to do so. 

[Biographical, from the New Orleans Times-Democrat.] 

He labored hard and faithfully in the interests of New Orleans 
and the district, and always with telling effect. He was a member 
of the Committee on Interstate and Foreign Commerce. He was 
a man of strong character, honest, and sincere, and his friends 
were only limited by the number of his acquaintances. 

[Editorial from the New Orleans Picayune.] 

During the last 10 years of Judge Davey's life he had repre- 
sented the second Louisiana district in the House of Representa- 
tives, and in the National Capital had soon become as generally 
known and as universally liked as he had been at home. His 
activities in Congress were of a strictly practical kind. He made 
no effort to shine as a speaker or to become identified with sensa- 
tional measures. He devoted himself assiduously to committee 
work and to safeguarding and looking after the interests of his 
constituents and of the city and State of his birth and residence. 
No matter who went to Washington with business of personal or 
private character with the Government, Judge Davey made it his 
duty to see that their mission was helped in every way in his 
power. It was this obliging spirit and bis constant devotion to 
duty that made Judge Davey a valuable Congressman, and which 
is certain to make it exceedingly difficult to make good his loss. 

[Biographical, from the New Orleans Picayune. 

However much success Congressman Davey had obtained in 
the National Congress, yet it was here at home and in his own 
ward that he was best known, and where the people loved him 

[43] 



Memorial Addresses: Representative Davey 

for the many admirable and affectionate traits which he possessed. 
He was a great benefactor. Judge Davey never kept money. No 
one was ever turned from him hungry or in need. He was a 
generous benefactor to the orphans, especially the New Orleans 
Female Orphan Asylum, to which institution he gave an annual 
outing on the river to some picnic grounds where the little tots 
enjoyed the fresh air and a fine spread. During the fever of 1905 
Judge Davey was at the head of the Second Ward Sanitation 
Association, and all during that siege he was never known to fail 
to be present at the noon meetings. He was instrumental in col- 
lecting several thousand dollars for the sanitation of his ward. 
»* + + *** 

Many of his efforts and successes in Congress will live as ever- 
lasting monuments to his memory. The new million-dollar post 
office, for which he worked day and night, will ever testify to his 
energies in Washington in behalf of his own people. 

[Editorial from the New Orleans States.] 

Judge Davey received a collegiate education as a youth, and 
from his young manhood to the day of his death he was trusted 
and honored by his people in high positions, officially and other- 
wise. He was, while yet a young man, honored by the senate of 
Louisiana by being chosen as president of that body. He was 
nominated by his party for mayor of New Orleans and was 
defeated for that position only because of the upheaval which 
took place in that campaign and the great personal popularity of 
his opponent, the late Mayor Shakespeare. 

Then he went to Congress, and he served his people so disin- 
terestedly and so well that opposition to him became futile and 
the place was repeatedly accorded to him practically by acclama- 
tion. Judge Davey was a man of genial temperament, kind- 
hearted, benevolent, a friend of the poor, and an idol among the 
masses of his constituents. He never courted the limelight, but 
was quiet, unobtrusive, most companionable, and always loyal to 
his friends. During his long term of service he has taken a 
prominent, though not noisy, part in the work of public legisla- 
tion, and his personal popularity among the influential men of 
both parties enabled him to accomplish much for his district 
that would have failed under more brilliant but less tactful 
leadership. 

[44] 



Address of Mr. Estopinal, of Louisiana 

He was one of those quiet, companionable men whom one occa- 
sionally meets whose work is accomplished withoul blare of 
trumpet or flashing of red lire, and who yet stand the test of meril 
and efficiency. Among the poor and humble, who knew him and 
loved him, among the rich and great, who respected and honored 
him, among the men of his district of all shades of political 
thought, the death of Judge Dayf.y will come as a personal 
bereavement. The State has lost a valuable and successful 
Representative in Congress and his constituents an official upon 
whom they knew they could depend under all circumstances. 

[Biographical, from the New Orleans Stales.] 

Judge D.wky attained a wide influence at Washington and bore 
intimate personal relations with many of the leaders on both sides. 
He was a conspicuous member of the important Committee on 
Interstate and Foreign Commerce, and, while seldom taking part 
in the debates on the floor, was an indefatigable worker in the 
departments and the committee room, and bad rendered invalu- 
able service not only to his own district, but to the whole city. 

Personally, Judge Davey was a man of most likable qualities. 
He was genial, warm-hearted, and sympathetic, an entertaining 
conversationalist, and won lifelong friends in whatever sphere 
he entered. He was democratic in his tastes, thoroughly 
approachable, and his death will be deeply mourned by all classes 
of the community. 

Of splendid physique, with an endurance that seemed to 
have no limit, it is sad, indeed, that disease should have 
laid hold of him and taken him from us at such an early 
age, and at a period of life when his powers for usefulness 
to his people had scarcely reached their meridian. To 
those of us who knew him so well and so long, the thought 
of him will always be a living, breathing, ever-enduring 
pleasure. 



[45] 



Address of Mr. Broissard, of Louisiana 

Mr. Speaker: Love of him in life, and fond remem- 
brance, no less than time-honored custom, bring us to 
this historic Hall to pay a last tribute to the memory of 
Robert C. Davey. 

Of this Congress he was a Member-elect; but he had 
not concluded his duties as a Member of the previous 
Congress when death claimed him. At the Hotel Dieu, 
in New Orleans, his native city, the morning after Christ- 
mas, 1908, he passed forever from our midst. 

Robert Charles Davey was born October 22, 1853. 
During his early boyhood he attended the public schools 
and the Christian Brothers' School, in New Orleans; and, 
subsequently, in 1869, matriculated at St. Vincent College, 
Cape Girardeau, Mo., and from that institution he was 
graduated in 1871. 

His education completed, he returned to New Orleans, 
where, for a while, he contemplated studying law, but 
later decided to pursue a commercial life. He obtained 
employment in a wholesale house, and, by his close ap- 
plication to business, a pleasing address, and his sturdy 
honesty and integrity, he soon rose in the esteem of not 
only his associates, but of his employers; consequently, 
his promotions were frequent and numerous. 

The life suited him, and with it he was pleased; but 
for him there were other things in store. 

[46] 



Address of Mr. Broussard, of Louisiana 

Bob Davey was then a member of the White League. 
As sneli he took an active part in quelling the disturb- 
ances under which Louisiana suffered in reconstruction 
times, and participated in the battle of the 1 1th of Sep- 
tember, 1874, thereby helping the people of his native 
State to resume control of its affairs. 

He was a public-spirited young man and had early 
identified himself with the Democratic Party, being a 
member of the organization of that party in his native 
ward. In 1878 the leaders of that organization became 
hopelessly divided. The dissatisfaction emanating from 
this chaotic condition of affairs made it an utter impos- 
sibility to restore order; hence, a new leader was eagerly 
sought for. 

To his surprise, Bob Davey was asked, as the one man 
who could harmonize the situation, to step into the 
breach and assume the leadership. Realizing the obliga- 
tions and responsibilities that would be incumbent upon 
him, he hesitated, as he feared it would interfere with 
his business occupation; but when it was shown that the 
request came to him as a patriotic duty bis big heart 
could not refuse. He acceded to their request and suc- 
ceeded in harmonizing the differences. 

He was elected a member of the Democratic State cen- 
tral committee, and of that committee he remained a 
member until his death. During his long membership 
in that body there continued in the ward the harmony 
which, nearly 30 years before, he bad instilled among his 
friends; but in commercial pursuits, which he at first 
intended to follow, his activities soon ceased. In the 
same year be was tendered the Democratic nomination 
to the State Legislature, but not having abandoned the 
hope of continuing the business career that be had early 
decided for himself, he declined the honor that was of- 
fered him. 



17 



Memorial Addresses: Representative Davey 

In the following year, however — 1879 — he was elected 
to the State senate, and to this body he was reelected 
several times, serving continuously until 1892, when he 
resigned his seat to accept a nomination to the Fifty- 
third Congress, to which body he was elected. 

While in the State senate he was elected president pro 
tempore of that branch of the legislature, and before the 
expiration of his term of service in that body his people 
honored him by his election as one of the recorders of 
New Orleans. As such he served for eight years, and 
until 1888, when he was nominated by the Democrats for 
mayor of the city of New Orleans, in which election he 
was defeated. 

His term of office in the Fifty-third Congress brought 
him to the conclusion that he did not like the service here. 
In 1894, though, upon his return home, he was tendered 
a renomination, but as he was desirous -to resume his 
business career he declined. So friendly was the con- 
vention to him that, through insistence, he himself placed 
in nomination Charles F. Buck, who was elected as his 
successor. 

In 1896 the convention met and again nominated Davey 
to Congress. He was elected to the Fifty-fifth Congress 
and to every subsequent Congress up to and including 
the present Congress, having at no time in all these years 
met with any opposition in his own party to his several 
reelections. 

Bon Davey thus served on the Democratic State central 
committee continuously for nearly 30 years; he served 
as city judge of New Orleans for 8 years; as State sen- 
ator for 13 years, 1 of which as president pro tempore of 
that body; and 16 years in this body. 

My first acquaintance with Davey was in 1892, when I 
was elected a member of the Democratic State central 
committee, on which committee I served with him con- 



[48] 



Address ok Mr. Broussard, of Louisiana 

tinuously up to the time of his death. My next and more 
intimate acquaintance with him was at the time of my 
first election to Congress, in 1890, and tins resulted in 
elevating my preconception of his kindly character. He 
was returning to Congress after a two years' ahsence 
from service, and he graciously offered me his assistance 
when he could serve. To me he was very kind, as he 
was to everybody, indeed. 

We took adjoining rooms at the same hotel, ami a 
close and intimate friendship sprang up between us. 
Thereafter, and up to the time of his death, we always 
stopped at the same hotels. 

Close association thus for 14 years, almost, has en- 
abled me to judge of the splendid character of Bob Davey. 
Due to that fact, perhaps, no man here is better ac- 
quainted with his inestimable qualities than I am. He 
was the most sympathetic man I have ever known. 
Every man's suffering, as soon as he learned of it, was 
his. In the good fortune of others he delighted. Selfish- 
ness was alien to his nature. What was his was his only 
as others needed it not; and I believe I can safely say, 
without fear of contradiction, that no one, friend or foe, 
ever requested a favor of Bob Davey, if within his power, 
that he did not grant it; that no one, acquaintance or 
stranger, ever asked help of Bob Davey in vain. To the 
extent of his ability he always, at all times, under all cir- 
cumstances, extended the hand of fellowship to those 
who were in need of it. 

He was of Irish extraction, and, like most men of that 
race, he had a keenly developed sense of humor. He 
possessed wit of no mean order, and this he never used to 
vex or offend, but always to assuage the feelings or elevate 
the spirit of his friends when downcast or melancholy. 
Adroit as he was, no friction among his friends ever 
became serious, because his sense of humor invariably 

73503°— 11 1 [49] 



Memorial Addresses : Representative Davey 

came forward to relieve a situation, and soon the humor- 
ous side of every controversy was thrust to the front and 
good feeling at once prevailed. No man, I dare say, ever 
knew Bob Davey but liked him, and that liking always 
increased as the acquaintance grew older. 

In Congress he served well and faithfully, and his activi- 
ties were of a practical kind. He was assiduous in his 
committee service and was always conservative in his 
views; he was ever alert to the interests of his constitu- 
ency and State; he delighted in serving his, people, and no 
cause of theirs was ever too arduous for him to champion. 
As a speaker he was not conspicuous; in fact, he did not 
make a speech during his long service in the House, 
and he repeatedly said that, no matter how long would 
be his service in the House, he would never make a set 
speech. Surely, though, his services were very potent and 
valuable. 

To those of us who participated in the obsecpiies of our 
late colleague the editorial remarks of the New Orleans 
Picayune would be familiar and would describe them best. 
To those who did not attend they will better describe the 
real esteem in which Bob Davey was held by the people 
of his native city: 

THE FUNERAL OF CONGRESSMAN DAVEY. 

Yesterday the remains of the late Representative Robert C. 
Davey were sorrowfully and tenderly consigned to the tomb. 
The funeral was probably the most remarkable demonstration of 
popular sorrow that has been witnessed in New Orleans in many 
a day. There was no idle curiosity and no concourse of people 
attracted merely by display, but there was a great outpouring of 
persons from every walk of life and representative of every ele- 
ment in the community to attest their earnest affection and respect 
for the man who had lived among them all of his life and had won 
their regard and admiration by his sturdy honesty, goodness of 
heart, and unswerving devotion to every duty of good citizenship. 

[50] 



Address of Mr. Broussard, or Louisiana 

There were present committees representing the Houses of 
Congress, in one of which Judge Davky served for so many years; 
officials of the State and Federal Governments, as well as the 
mayor and leading officials of the city and of its various public 
bodies. There were also in attendance hankers, merchants, work- 
ingmen — in fact people of every calling and element in the com- 
munity, all inspired by the same genuine desire to pay a last sad 
tribute of affection to the man who had been equally a friend to all. 

There have been funerals in which military pomp and display 
have been memorable in the annals of this city, but not in the 
memory of the present generation, at least, has a prominent citi- 
zen been carried to his last resting place with more evidences of 
the genuine esteem in which he was held during life than were 
displayed in the obsequies yesterday of Robert C. Davf.y. His 
memory will long remain green among those who knew him. 



[51] 



Address of Mr. Stevens, of Minnesota 

Mr. Speaker: It is with a sense of melancholy that one 
who has known our late colleague, Judge Dayey, inti- 
mately addresses himself, briefly and formally, for the 
last time, to his life and character. As a member of the 
Committee on Interstate and Foreign Commerce of this 
House it was my privilege to know him thoroughly for 
several years, and, with the others of his associates there, 
we grew to have for him the warmest personal affection. 
His uniform courtesy to everybody and his loyalty to 
whomever and whatever had his allegiance won for him 
the same high place in our regard as it seemed to have won 
the confidence and esteem of his fellow-citizens of his 
native city and State. There was nothing subtle or re- 
served or disingenuous about the treatment by Judge 
Dayey of his colleagues, so we learned to expect constant 
fairness and consideration from him; and never were we 
disappointed during the years of closest association even 
under the strain of partisan debate and maneuvers. 

Necessarily strong differences of opinion must arise 
where there is under consideration and preparation great 
epiestions involving the welfare of our Nation and people 
and affecting vitally all sections and factions more or less 
equally. These times of stress test the real manhood and 
worth of all public men, and it was at such a time that we 
appreciated to the utmost the presence of Judge Dayey 
among us. With a large experience in public and private 
affairs, with a shrewd and practical grasp on whatever 
came before him for consideration, with an honest and 



Address of Mr. Stevens, of Minnesota 

sincere desire to learn and do whatever was the best to be 
done, we leaned on his judgment and welcomed his sug- 
gestions. He was without pretense or hypocrisy, never 
descended to gallery play, so often thought necessary to 
political success, but he always sought to state his own 
position and that of his opponents so fairly and justly as 
to win approval by the merits of his cause rather than 
through his own connection with it. 

Enfeebled by a wasting ailment for some years before 
his decease, yet this did not deter him from performing 
his duties fully and zealously and effectively to his coun- 
try, to his party, and to his constituency. We all admired 
his brave and suffering soul as he went among us daily 
with a smile and a jest, when we knew al the time of his 
physical torture. 

He was always considerate toward us who were with 
him, when most others would have demanded our con- 
sideration for himself. We deeply appreciated that un- 
selfishness and magnanimity and were always glad in 
return to express to him our confidence, good will, and 
affection. 

Such ties as these, such friendship, and such associa- 
tions overwhelm the many meannesses we meet in daily 
duties, retain many men in public life, and inspire them 
to valiant service for their country, when without these 
virtues among their fellows the flavor and fascination 
would largely be gone, the charm of public service would 
be greatly dissipated, and the country would lose the 
benefit of the patriotic, disinterested, and invaluable 
labors of many of its most useful servants. We are glad 
to bear this testimonial to our friends and fellows when 
we know how truly it is merited and what an inspiration 
such a life and such qualities are to the rest of us. 

The years will go, and sooner or later we all shall go 
with them, having played our small parts here for a brief 

[53] 



Memorial Addresses: Representative Davey 

season. But those of us who were privileged to know 
Judge Davey well will always hold some fresh green spot 
in our memory for him and for his association with us. 

Blessed be the turf above thee, 

Thou friend of brighter days; 
None knew thee but to love thee; 

None named thee but to praise. 

ADJOURNMENT 

And then, on motion of Mr. Gilmore, and in pursuance 
of the resolution previously agreed to (at 2 o'clock and 
27 minutes p. m.)> the House adjourned. 



[54] 



Proceedings in the Senate 

Thursday, March 31, 1910. 

Prayer by the Chaplain, Rev. Ulysses (\. B. Pierce, D. I). 

Mr. McEnery. Mr. President, I give notice that on 
Monday, April 18, 1010, I shall ask the Senate to consider 
resolutions in commemoration of the life and public 
services of the Hon. Robert C. Davey, late a Representa- 
tive from the State of Louisiana. 

April 18, 1910. 

Mr. McEnery. Mr. President, I ask the Chair to lay 
before the Senate the resolutions of the House of Repre- 
sentatives in respect to my late colleague in that body, 
Hon. Robert C. Davey. 

The Presiding Officer (Mr. Kean in the chair). The 
Chair lays before the Senate the resolutions indicated by 
the Senator from Louisiana, which will be read. 

The Secretary read the resolutions, as follows: 

In the House of Representatives. 

March 20, WW. 

Resolved, That the business of the House be now suspended thai 
opportunity may be given for tributes to the memory of lion. 
Robert C. Davey, late a Member of this House from the Slate of 
Louisiana. 

Resolved, That as a particular mark of respect to the memory 
of the deceased, and in recognition of his distinguished public 
career, the House at the conclusion of these exercises shall stand 
adjourned. 

Resolved, That the Clerk communicate these resolutions to the 

Senate. 

Resolved, That the Clerk send a copy of these resolutions to the 
family of the deceased. 

[55] 



Proceedings in the Senate 



Mr. McEnery. Mr. President, I submit the resolutions 
I send to the desk. 

The Presiding Officer. The resolutions will be read. 
The Secretary read the resolutions, as follows: 

Resolved, That the Senate expresses its profound sorrow on ac- 
count of the death of the Hon. Robert Charles Davey, late a Mem- 
ber of the House of Representatives from the State of Louisiana. 

Resolved, That the business of the Senate be now suspended in 
order that fitting tributes may be paid his memory. 

Resolved, That the Secretary communicate a copy of these reso- 
lutions to the House of Representatives and to the family of the 
deceased. 

The Presiding Officer. The question is on agreeing to 
the resolutions submitted by the Senator from Louisiana. 
The resolutions were unanimously agreed to. 



[56] 



MEMORIAL ADDRESSES 



Address of Mr. McEnery, of Louisiana 

Mr. President: Robert C. Davey, late Member of Con- 
gress from the second congressional district of Louisiana, 
died in the city of New Orleans on the 26th day of De- 
cember, 1908. 

I can not say, and I will not say, 

That he is dead — he's just away; 

With a cheery smile and a wave of the hand 

He has wandered into an unknown land. 

And left us dreaming how very fair 

It needs must be, since he lingers there. 

He was born in New Orleans October 22, 18f)3. He was 
educated in the schools of New Orleans and at St. Vincent 
College, Cape Girardeau, Mo., from which he was gradu- 
ated in 1873. Entering into commercial pursuits he dis- 
played aptitude, and had lie continued in this occupation 
success would have been his reward, for diligence and 
pleasing manners were his, which were sure to attract 
favorable attention. But he had a fondness for political 
matters and soon drifted into politics. It was but a short 
time before he became favorably known throughout the 
State lor his sterling worth, loyalty to Ins party, and 
fidelity to his friends. He was at an early period of his 
career a member of various organizations of his party, 
from the lowest to the highest, and became conspicuous 

[57] 



Memorial Addresses : Representative Davey 

for the wisdom he brought to its councils, his sound judg- 
ment on all questions, and his common sense and integ- 
rity in directing the practical machinery of his party in 
avoiding unnecessary entanglements and promoting har- 
mony among discordant elements and sending into the 
field a force of intelligent and energetic workers. 

During the tragic period of reconstruction he was an 
ardent advocate of aggressive action and a member of all 
organizations to overthrow the alien government which 
to the people and wealth to the State. In carrying out 
elected to the State senate in 1879 and reelected in 1884 
and 1892. He was president pro tempore of the senate 
in 1884-1886. He took a leading part in all matters of 
legislation, and his influence was pronounced in promot- 
ing the passage of needed laws and the defeat of useless 
and harmful legislation. 

Gov. Francis T. Nicholls went into the executive office 
when there was wreck and ruin in all the material inter- 
ests of the State, following the disastrous control of the 
State by negroes and unscrupulous whites. By an almost 
superhuman effort he restored things to normal condi- 
tions. By his wise, able, and patriotic efforts he inaugu- 
rated that system which in after years brought happiness 
to the people and wealth to the State. In carrying out 
the policies of the first white man's government since the 
war, R. C. Davey was distinguished for his ability and his 
fidelity to the State, and his work in this direction made 
him more generally known, increasing his popularity and 
his influence. He was elected judge of the first recorder's 
court of the city of New Orleans in 1880, and reelected in 
1882, and served until 1888. His administration of the 
office was satisfactory to the people, and his rigid enforce- 
ment of the law greatly contributed to the good order of 
the city. In 1888 he was a candidate for mayor of the 
city of New Orleans, but was defeated. 

[58] 



Address of Mr. McEnery, of Louisiana 

The campaign was one of those which so often occur 
in municipalities when it is difficult to analyze the mo- 
tives which control voters, when factional differences 
ignore party obligations, local interests and prejudices 
upset all calculations, and worth and party services are 
subordinated to selfishness. At any rate, this defeat did 
not detract from his personal popularity and his high 
standing in his district, for he was soon thereafter elected 
to the Fifty-third Congress. He was tendered the nomi- 
nation for the Fifty-fourth, which he declined. He was 
elected to the Fifty-fifth and each succeeding Congress, 
including the Sixty-first. When he was elected to the 
Sixty-first Congress few believed he would he able to 
take his seat, as he had heen in declining health for 
nearly two years, and when elected he was nearing the 
end of his useful life. The people of the district were 
so devoted to him that no question of his health entered 
into the advisability of his election. During the long 
period of his illness he fought hard for life, in order to 
perform his duty, and this he did under the most trying 
conditions. 

In the House he was not a participant in debate, ex- 
cept on rare occasions, hut his strong and vigorous com- 
mon sense and his unerring judgment made him a valued 
counselor and an active, useful member of committees. 
His amiability and excellent hearing made friends for 
him on both sides of the Chamber. His congressional 
efforts were mainly exerted in promoting the interests 
of his State and his immediate constituency, but he was 
not unmindful of his obligations to the entire country, 
as his votes and services on committees attest. 

He was well known and much esteemed in Washing- 
ton, particularly for bis ministrations to those in need of 
assistance, and his generosity was not limited by the size 
and contents of his purse. Often he deprived himself 

[59] 



Memorial Addresses : Representative Davey 

to give to others, and too often was his generous nature 
imposed upon. But this in no way checked his generous 
impulses, for the next appeal would be met unhesitatingly. 

There are many episodes in Judge Davey's life which, 
if known, would, in part, explain the deep affection in 
which he was held by so many who knew him. An ex- 
ample is recalled in an incident of the Spanish-American 
War. The First and Second Louisiana Regiments were 
in camp at Miami, Fla. An epidemic of typhoid fever 
broke out and a number of young Louisianians gave up 
their lives to this plague. The officers of both regiments 
solicited every influence that could be reached in an 
effort to have the regiments moved out of this stricken 
spot. Among those, Judge Davey was telegraphed. He 
made no reply, but a day or two after he appeared in 
Miami from Washington. He remained long enough to 
advise himself of the true conditions, returned to Wash- 
ington, and two day* after his arrival there the troops 
were ordered out of Miami. How many lives this saved 
no one knows, but all who had relatives or friends in 
those regiments knew to whom the credit for this act was 
due. This was emphasized at the first reunion of the 
Second Louisiana Regiment in New Orleans on May 2, 
1900, at which were present a number of very prominent 
men. The toastmaster, who had been an officer in the 
regimenL lost a brother, another officer, who became ill 
in service. The feeling with which he introduced Judge 
Davey as the soldiers' friend, and the man who saved the 
volunteers from Miami, can be more easily imagined than 
expressed. 

The silent toast to the dead then pledged spoke more 
eloquently than words of the beloved judge, who has 
gone to join those who have passed into the great beyond, 
leaving by this simple incident thousands of hearts in 
friends and relatives of those soldiers to mourn him. 



[60] 



Address of Mr. McEnery, of Louisiana 

In his political career his sympathies wire with the 
workman and laborer. He was always prompt to aid 
them in all legislation which their conditions demanded. 
But none ever heard him utter a word of Battery or any 
expression, either in public or private, that in the re- 
motest degree approached the appeal of the demagogue. 
His self-respect and independence forbade it. He had 
the love, the confidence, and support of all classes of citi- 
zens. The rich and the poor attested their affection for 
him in his last illness and at his funeral. Flowers from 
the single bud to the elaborate and costly design, tributes 
of love from all the people, covered the casket and filled 
the room in which his remains lay in State. The entire 
city of New Orleans was in mourning, and as the funeral 
cortege was on its way to the church the streets were lined 
with sorrowing multitudes, many of whom were in tears 
in their affection for one whose band was always ready 
to give. He had requested that funeral services be held 
in St. Patrick's Church, the parish in which he was born 
and in which he had made his first communion and in 
which he had married Miss Margaret Johnson, who pre- 
ceded him to the grave in 1906. 

In his private and public life he was a model for imi- 
tation and an object of unqualified esteem. His manner 
was perfect and his countenance was one of singular dig- 
nity. There was nothing more striking or more effective 
in his addresses to bis constituents than the heartfelt 
sympathy which he throughout displayed in diction, in 
tone, in look, and gesture. He alone felt any doubt as 
to the extent of his powers, and he was so modest that 
he felt apprehension as to the performance of duty, which 
to the end he performed faithfully and ably. I frequently 
went with him over his district and heard many of his 
speeches. They were logical, direct, positive, sincere, 
and unostentatious. At one time I heard him deliver a 



[61] 



Memorial Addresses: Representative Davey 

speech which impressed me as being of marked force 
and ability. I insisted that he should speak oftener and 
to more distant audiences. He answered with his usual 
modesty, disclaiming that he had the qualities for a public 
speaker that I had attributed to him. Had he not been 
so distrustful of his ability and had he not been content 
to only serve and gratify his immediate following in the 
second congressional district he would have been placed 
high among the popular orators of the State. He was in 
truth a man of simple and natural manners and one in 
whom charity and the warmest feelings of human nature 
were blended in the highest degree, with firmness of pur- 
pose and unrelaxed sincerity of principle. None could 
know Bob Davey without learning that he was never car- 
ried away with political triumphs; but he valued his own 
successes and ability only so far as they could conduce to 
the welfare and happiness of his constituents. His firm- 
ness never degenerated into obstinacy. His confidence in 
those principles he espoused was never mixed with con- 
tempt for those which differed. His unbending honesty 
and straightforward course on all subjects never led him 
to neglect those courtesies which facilitate personal and 
political intercourse. He had close friends among those 
who differed from him who esteemed him for his worth, 
gentleness, and fidelity. 

R. C. Davey, known all over the State as " Bob," and I, 
entered political life at the same period. From that date 
until his death we were closely and intimately associated. 
Commencing with friendly intercourse, our association 
passed beyond mere friendship and ripened into the 
deepest affection. There was nothing between us to mar 
our relations. There was between us no concealment of 
thought or conduct. What concerned the one was of in- 
terest to the other. He was noble, he was generous, he 
was brave, he was true. To me his death was irrepar- 



[62] 



Address of Mr. McEnery, of Louisiana 

able, for where shall I again find a friend so devoted and 
so true! 

Gone, gone, gone is the light of ;i noble eye, 

And the grasp of a genial hand; 
But beyond the night there breaks the light 

On a soul in the better land. 

My last parting with and farewell to my devoted friend 
was in his last moments in a loving embrace- the last 
communion with a soul pure and white on its way to the 
" better land." 

Death teaches many heavy lessons hard to hear; 
And most it teaches us what we have lost 
In losing those who loved us. 



[63] 



Address of Mr. Jones, of Washington 

Mr. President: The State of Washington is probably 
interested in more diverse legislation than any other 
State in the Union. There is no important committee 
in either branch of Congress that does not deal with 
legislation touching some interest of ours, and so it was 
that soon after my entrance into the House of Represen- 
tatives in the Fifty-sixth Congress I had to appear before 
the Interstate Commerce Committee of that body, of 
which Robert Davey was a member. My visits to the 
committee were frequent and I soon became acquainted 
with him. He was always present at the meetings of the 
committee and took a lively interest in its deliberations. 
He was kind and courteous to all and always ready to 
render any assistance possible. 

I did not become very intimately acquainted with Mr. 
Davey. He belonged to the minority, I to the majority. 
He was rather quiet and retiring in disposition, but it 
soon became apparent to me that he was a most faithful 
and effective worker. This was his reputation among 
the Members, and everyone seemed to be glad to favor 
him at every opportunity. This personal element counts 
for much in a legislative body. Members of Congress 
are intensely human and, consistent with their public 
duty, are much influenced by personal friendships, and 
that Member who recognizes this fact can do most effec- 
tive work for his people. 

Robert Davey was a partisan, but he was first a patriot. 
He believed in Democratic policies and principles be- 

[64] 



Address of Mr. Jones, of Washington 

cause he believed them to be for the best interests of his 
country. While tenacious of his own views and opinions 
he mack' no factious opposition to the policies of the ma- 
jority, but gave his best efforts to perfect the same in 
accordance with what he believed to be right. 

He was not a noisy man; he was a doing man. He did 
not attempt to deceive his constituents with much speak- 
ing, but justified their confidence by Ins works. He was 
the kind of a man who, in a large legislative body like the 
House of Representatives, actually accomplishes things 
for his constituents and leaves his impress upon the meas- 
ures that are passed for the benefit of the whole people. 
It is a large body. Its Members are elected directly by 
the people. Their terms are short. They are swayed 
largely by the popular clamor. They watch carefully 
and anxiously the state of the public mind and try to 
bring their judgment in harmony with it. The majority 
is held responsible for legislation. The minority point 
out and magnify mistakes and attempt to show the peo- 
ple that they are in favor of the policies the people want, 
without making a record that may embarrass them in 
the future. The minority plays politics to the limit, in- 
dividually and collectively. So it is that there is much 
of bombast, much of posing to catch the popular acclaim, 
much of political maneuvering to gain party advantage. 
We have heard much condemnation of the rules of that 
body, much complaint of the difficulty of securing legisla- 
tion. Trace this complaint to its source and you will find 
in most cases that the man who is the loudest in com- 
plaint has an unjust or unwise measure which he has been 
unable to pass or else thai he does not work for and look 
after his measures as he should, and tries to hide his own 
carelessness or negligence by denouncing something or 
somebody. Robert Davey was not that kind of a man. 
He looked after his measures quietly, persistently, and 



73503°— 11- 



[65] 



Memorial Addresses : Representative Davey 

effectively. The rules of the House did not worry him. 
He not only knew how to work, but he worked. He was 
careful, persistent, and industrious. Nothing of interest 
to his constituents was neglected, and the welfare of the 
people was his highest ambition. He was faithful in all 
things. Strong and rugged, he was as gentle as a child. 
Kind and tender, yet firm and unyielding for the right. 
He was a man — kind, true, tender, gentle, lovable; a 
statesman — quiet, effective, broadminded, fearless, wise, 
faithful, and patriotic. His State is proud of his record, 
and his life is an inspiration to everyone who hopes to 
impress himself upon the annals of his country. 

He was respected, honored, and loved by his own peo- 
ple who knew him best, and for thirty years he never be- 
trayed their trust. All that is mortal has gone to the dust; 
but those elements of moral worth and power which 
stimulate mankind to higher endeavor will live through- 
out the ages, and are to us who knew him a memory of 
unalloyed sweetness. 

Well may it be said of him: 

Statesman, yet friend to truth! of soul sincere, 
In action faithful, and in honour clear! 
Who broke no promise, served no private end, 
Who gained no title, and who lost no friend; 
Ennobled by himself, by all approved; 
Praised, wept, and honoured, 
Such this man was. 

Peace to thy gentle shade and endless rest, 
Blest in thy genius, in thy love, too, blest; 
And blest, that timely from our seal removed 
Thy soul enjoys the liberty it loved. 



[66] 



Address of Mr. Johnston, of Alabam \ 

Mr. President: On Saturday, December 20, 1908, the 
Hon. Roisert C. Davey, a Member of the House of Repre- 
sentatives from the second district of Louisiana, died iu 
the fifty-fifth year of his age, and in New Orleans, the city 
where he was born and best known, and amongst the 
people who loved and honored him, and in whose service 
he had spent many useful years. 

At the age of 29 he was elected to the State senate, and 
so capable and faithful was his service that he was twice 
reelected to this office. 

In 1880 he was elected judge of the first recorder's court, 
and twice reelected to this office. 

He was elected to the Fifty-third Congress; declined a 
reelection to the succeeding term; and again elected to the 
Fifty-eighth Congress, and continued to serve the people 
who loved and honored him until his death. 

He was a strong, honest, sincere man, so full of human 
kindness and sympathy that all those who knew him were 
attached to him by the most enduring ties of friendship 
and respect. 

Living, his people loved and honored him, and when he 
died there was not a soul amongst them that did not 
mourn the death of this good man. upright judge, and 
faithful representative. 

In reading a brief sketch of him (Mr. Davey) by a paper 
published in his home city, I find this recorded of him: 

His long service as magistrate gave him insight into the frailties 
of human beings such as few oilier men have. Thai, with his big 

117 



Memorial Addresses : Representative Davey 

heart, made him one of the men to whom those in trouble went; of 
course he was often imposed upon by rascals, but he used to say 
that he could " better afford to be imposed upon than to make a 
mistake by refusing help." 

This one graphic touch reveals the humanity that makes 
all the world akin, and shows the real cause of Mr. Davey's 
strong and far-reaching influence with his associates in 
Congress and elsewhere. 

We can all picture to ourselves the kind of man that the 
poor, the needy — those in distress and affliction — would 
seek for aid and comfort. 

The good Samaritan did not stop to inquire whether the 
man who fell amongst thieves was a worthy and virtuous 
citizen or not; he saw suffering humanity and straightway 
administered relief. 

Too many of us want to circumscribe our charity and 
sympathy to worthy objects and to leave the fallen to the 
consequences of their own folly or evil deeds, instead of 
endeavoring to raise up those who fall and giving strength 
to those who stand. 

I imagine, Mr. President, that when Mr. Davey stands 
before the Great White Throne to be judged for the deeds 
done in the flesh this one statement of his, that he could 
" better afford to be imposed upon than to make a mistake 
by refusing help," will count more with the Eternal Judge 
than the recital of all the places of trust he had worthily 
fdled and all the honors that a grateful people had heaped 
upon him. 

When he shall come to pass the sacred gate 

God shall not question, " What of gifts hast thou? " 

Nor, " Hath life graved thy name among the great?" 
But, " Wert thou tender, loving, soon and late?" 



'liS 



Address of Mr. Lorimer, of Illinois 

Mr. President: While I realize the days of all shall be 
numbered and I bow to tbe will of a Divine Providence, 
I can not but regret that Robert Charles Dayf.y should 
have been taken so soon from this life. 

It was my good fortune to have served eight years in 
the Mouse of Representatives, during the time he graced 
that body as a Member. I bad the pleasure of a close, 
personal acquaintance with him. I came to know the 
humane traits of his character. It was this side of the 
man that attracted people to him and caused them to 
love him. I never came in contact with a person who 
was more easily approached. He had a pleasant smile 
and warm greeting for all, whether they were of high or 
humble station in life. His good deeds did not end with 
kind words and warm greetings. He never failed to re- 
spond when called upon to aid, when his efforts might 
help one in need. He was ever ready to help those in 
stringent financial circumstances, even to dividing with 
them the contents of his own purse. When he pledged 
his word all knew it would be redeemed if he lived. He 
was an optimist; he always saw something in life worth 
living for. I never knew a more kindly hearted person. 
He was always happiest when doing something to help 
and please others. 

Rut. with all his kindness of heart, he was a strong, 
vigorous, brave man; always found standing oul in tbe 
open, boldly and fearlessly proclaiming and contending 



Memorial Addresses: Representative Davey 

for the principles for which he stood. As a Democrat he 
fought with great vigor and directness for his party, never 
flinching under fire and ever contesting every inch of 
ground over which the battle waged, and all this without 
malice for his opponent. He accorded to others always 
that which he demanded for himself — the privilege of 
doing the right as God gave him the light to see it. He 
was modest and unpretentious, well informed on the 
affairs of the nation; and as a doer of things for his con- 
stituents he had no peer in Congress. 

Mr. President, I would that all mankind might be 
blessed with the same intellectual clearness, strength of 
character, energy, fairness of mind and action, the same 
courage of conviction, honesty of purpose, the same tol- 
erant and kindly spirit, as that possessed by Judge Davey. 
A world made up of such men as he! Oh, what a world 
this would be ! 

If living a life of rectitude, kindliness, and charity to 
humankind; if following the injunction of the most right- 
eous and equitable law ever laid down — " Do unto others 
even as you would have others do unto you" — justifies 
man in the hope of receiving the grace of his Maker, then 
may it truthfully be said that Robert Davey, at the time 
he laid down his burden of life and its perplexities, was 
entitled to say, as did the sweet singer of Israel : 

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, 
I will fear no evil, for Thou art with me. Thy rod and Thy staff 
they comfort me. 

Mr. President, one of the pleasant memories of my life 
will be the friendship of Judge Robert Charles Davey. 



[70] 



Address of Mr. Foster, of Louisiana 

Mr. President: Robert Charles Davev was born in 
New Orleans October 22, 1853. He received a primary 
education in the schools of that city, but completed his 
studies at St. Vincent's College, Cape Girardeau, Mo., 
from which he graduated in 1871 well equipped for the 
struggle of life. 

His first inclination was to practice law, but on return- 
ing to his native city he finally chose a commercial career 
instead, and for several years was engaged in active busi- 
ness life. 

He was finally induced by his many friends, however, 
to give up a commercial for a public career. 

Party strife, Mr. President, ran high in the late seven- 
ties and early eighties in New Orleans; factional feeling 
was, if anything, even more bitter and the local organiza- 
tions were rent with internal strife. 

Viewed from a pdrty standpoint there was an especially 
ugly and threatening situation in the second ward, where 
Mr. Davey made his home, and to put the party house in 
order the leaders of the warring factions induced the 
young merchant in 1878 to stand for election to the State 
Central Committee. After some hesitancy lie consented, 
was elected, and with the exception of a single term of 
two years, when he voluntarily retired, was member of 
that body up to the date of his death. 

Prior to that, however, his mettle had been tested. He 
had been a member of the White League, and four years 



[71] 



Memorial Addresses: Representative Davey 

before, on the memorable 14th of September, 1874, had 
gallantly participated in the battle resulting in the over- 
throw of the government which had been forced upon the 
people of that city. 

He was elected recorder of the principal police court of 
the city in 1880, and served in that capacity for eight 
years. It was in this so-called poor man's court, where 
he dispensed justice tempered with mercy, that he ac- 
quired that knowledge of human nature that served him 
well all through his public career, and it was here that 
much of that loyal and devoted following was built up 
which manifested itself whenever he submitted his candi- 
dacy to the people, and finally, when bowed with grief, 
joined with the more fortunate elements of the com- 
munity in making his funeral one of the most notable 
ever seen in New Orleans. 

In 1878 he was tendered the nomination of member of 
the house of representatives of the State General Assem- 
bly, but declined it. The following year he was elected 
to the State senate. The close attention to matters con- 
cerning his constituency, the industry and the intelligence 
that characterized his public service marked him early 
for distinction in the State senate, and he was elected 
president pro tempore at the session of 1884, and again 
in 1886. • 

Two years later, in 1888, he was nominated for mayor 
by the Democratic party of New Orleans, and while his 
banner went down in a factional contest, his personal 
popularity was attested by the fact that he ran far ahead 
of his ticket. 

Following this contest he resumed commercial life for 
a brief period, but was soon recalled to political activity. 
In 1892 he was reelected to the State senate, but after 
serving one session resigned in order to be elected to 
Congress from the Second Louisiana District. With the 

[72] 



Address ok Mr. Foster, of Loi isiana 

exception of one term, when he declined renomination, 
he had been a Member of the other House ever since. 

As a Congressman his duties were numerous and ex- 
acting. They were discharged, however, with such fidel- 
ity, the results obtained were so satisfying, and the per- 
sons and interests concerned so pleased with the zeal and 
success displayed in matters affecting their welfare that, 
without hesitancy, they placed the seal of approval upon 
his every subsequent candidacy; and he was nominated 
without opposition in his own party and was elected prac- 
tically without opposition. 

And, Mr. President, this has more than ordinary import 
when the complexity of the interests he represented is 
considered. There are large agricultural interests whose 
very existence depends on the cooperation of the Federal 
Government in maintaining a levee system against the 
floods that pour down the Mississippi from other States, 
and these demand a Representative here who can com- 
mand great influence in Congress. 

The other part of his constituency was the great port 
of the Mississippi Valley and the South, with the myriad 
interests and demands that always attend upon shipping 
and trade. Yet he discharged their demands so faithfully 
and well that the commercial and industrial bodies of 
that city were no less loyal and united in their support 
than the farmers and planters living in the upper stretches 
of the district, in the parishes of Jefferson, St. Charles, 
St. John, and St. James. 

His work in the interest of the city was well known and 
appreciated no less in Congress than at home, and when 
this Government added a new revenue cutter lo its fleet 
a few years ago, assigning it to the New Orleans station, 
the highest tribute within its gift was paid him by christ- 
ening the vessel the Daveij. 



73] 



Memorial Addresses : Representative Davey 

His name will be associated for all time with the new 
post office now being erected in that city, which he la- 
bored so many years to secure. This was the last of 
many public acts in the interest of his native city and 
must remain, after all who are now living have been 
gathered to their reward, as a tribute to bis devotion to 
public duty and trust. 

It was the fate of Judge Davey, like most members from 
his section in recent years, to serve with the minority in 
Congress, and as under our system of Government the 
dominant party is responsible for the laws enacted, the 
part played by the minority members is not always 
known or little understood. 

But the friends who served with him on the important 
Committee on Interstate and Foreign Commerce in the 
other House are familiar with the great service he ren- 
dered. As the ranking member of tbe minority on tbat 
committee, he not only participated but took an impor- 
tant part in shaping some of the most important legisla- 
tion in recent years. 

He was one of the conferees on the disagreement be- 
tween the House and Senate when the Isthmian Canal 
bill was passed, and his name will ever be associated witb 
the rate bill enacted in the closing years of President 
Roosevelt's administration for having presented the re- 
port on the Davey bill setting forth the views of the 
minority with respect to this legislation. 

He seldom spoke, but his remarks always commanded 
the most careful attention when he did address the House. 
This was notably the case when certain legislation affect- 
ing tbe public health was under consideration a few years 
ago. Many Members, especially of his own party, were 
inclined to think tbat the proposed measure might result 
in the federal usurpation of states' rights, and the passage 
of the bill was endangered until he took tbe floor. 

[74] 



Address of Mr. Foster, of Louisiana 

In a brief but powerfully earnest speech he told the 
House of the horrors and suffering he had witnessed in 

the yellow-fever epidemics in New Orleans, and which 
the measure under consideration was intended to prevent 
in future. When he concluded the fate of the bill was 
no longer in doubt. It passed by an overwhelming ma- 
jority. 

He was strictly a party man, and, while throughout life a 
devout worshipper at the shrine of regularity, he incurred 
none of the abuse that is usually leveled at men of his 
class in public life. His was the wealthiest and in some 
respects the most cosmopolitan district in the State, for 
while he lived in New Orleans and represented half its 
people, yet four of the leading country parishes, in which 
are located some of the finest plantations in Louisiana, 
were also served by him, and these were as loyal to his 
leadership as his own ward, and in all of his contests 
none gave him more constant and loyal support than did 
the people of the country parishes. 

Bob Davey was not only a kindly but he was a chari- 
table man. He was ever ready, as far as his means would 
permit, to give to the poor and needy and to extend help 
and aid to those in trouble and distress. 

He was an affectionate husband, ever anxious and 
willing to contribute to the happiness of the wife who 
bore life's burdens with him and who was for many 
years herself a sufferer. 

He was one of the most indulgent and affectionate 
fathers I ever knew, and his daughters gave him the 
wealth of love which threw a halo of sunshine through the 
gloom of the sick chamber where he for so many months 
lay ill. 

He was a good citizen, ever looking to the uplifting and 
betterment of his fellow-man. He was a loyal friend, and 
in storm or sunshine never deserted or faltered in fidelity 

[75; 



Memorial Addresses: Representative Davey 

to his friends. He was as loyal to them in defeat as in 
victory. 

As a public servant he was faithful in the performance 
of his duty and unfaltering in support of those interests 
of his constituency committed to his trust. 

As an opponent he was frank and fair. He fought in 
the open — he never struck in the back or shot from the 
brush. 

He was a leader of undaunted courage; and what was 
more than all, he was a man who had the courage of his 
convictions. 

He 'never faltered in a fight. When he lifted his ban- 
ner and summoned his followers to its support, each and 
every one who followed knew they had a leader whom 
thej r could implicitly trust, and, Mr. President, they did 
trust him, and the people of his district and State trusted 
him. 

The highest tribute I can pay his memory to-day is to 
state this one fact, that the great trust which a portion of 
the people of my State imposed on him was cherished by 
him as absolutely sacred and was never in the slightest 
way betrayed. 

The great and high honor which his constituency had 
for so many years bestowed with grateful appreciation 
on him was never tarnished, but at the end of many years 
of hard and faithful service returned to them unsullied 
and as spotless as the hour in which they first conferred 
it on him. 

When the summons from beyond called him to join 
that innumerable band which leads to mysterious realms, 
where each shall take his place in line, he laid down the 
trust as unsullied and untarnished as when it was first 
committed to his keeping. 

Mr. McEnery. Mr. President, I offer the resolution 
which I send to the desk, and ask for its adoption. 

[76] 



Address or Mr. Foster, of Louisiana 

The Secretary read the resolution, as follows: 

Resolved, That as a further mark of respect to the memory of 

the deceased, the Senate do now adjourn. 

The Presiding Officer. The question is on agreeing to 

the resolution. 

The resolution was unanimously agreed lo; and (at 
5 o'clock and 10 minutes p. m.) the Senate adjourned 
until to-morrow, Tuesday, April 19, 1910, at 12 o'clock 
meridian. 



0& 



[77] 



